Good to Know - Things to Remember
Welcome to the 'Good to Know - Things to Remember' page of K9 Bondz, LLC. Here, we provide important information and reminders to help you make the most of your experience with our dog training services. Whether you're a new pet owner or looking to enhance your dog's skills, these tips will be valuable for you and your furry companion.
Training Consistency is Key
Consistency is crucial when it comes to training your dog. Repetition and positive reinforcement are key components in creating lasting behavior changes. Make sure to practice commands regularly and reward your dog for good behavior to see the best results.
Hugs Aren't Always Welcome
Teaching Kids the Right Way to Love Your Dog
Dogs and kids — a heart-melting combo, but also a partnership that needs clear rules and lots of guidance! As much as we want to believe every dog is a gentle, patient companion, the truth is: even the kindest pup can feel scared or overwhelmed. That’s why teaching your child how to interact safely and respectfully with dogs is one of the most important lessons you can give — for both your child’s safety and your dog’s comfort.
Here are a few key tips for teaching kids to interact safely with dogs:
1. Always Ask Permission
Even if it’s your family dog, children should learn to ask an adult for permission before approaching or petting. This habit teaches caution and respect, especially around unfamiliar dogs outside the home.
2. Learn Canine Body Language
Dogs communicate through body language, and teaching your child to recognize signs of discomfort — like growling, showing teeth, flattened ears, or a tucked tail — can prevent bites or other negative encounters. Calm, relaxed dogs are much more welcoming to affection.
3. Gentle Touch Only
Remind your children that dogs aren’t toys. Show them how to pet gently, avoiding sensitive areas like ears, tail, and paws, especially when the dog is eating, sleeping, or feeling unwell.
4. Don’t Let Kids Hug Dogs
As sweet as it looks, most dogs don’t actually enjoy being hugged — especially by young children who may squeeze too tightly or approach suddenly. Hugs can make dogs feel trapped or anxious, which can lead to defensive reactions. Teach kids to show affection in safer ways, like calm petting or tossing a favorite toy.
5. No Rough Play
Games like tug-of-war or wrestling might seem fun, but they can escalate quickly. Encourage structured, supervised games like fetch, and always supervise young children during playtime with pets.
6. Respect a Dog’s Space
Just like people, dogs need personal space. Teach your child not to approach dogs when they’re in their bed, crate, or under furniture. These are their safe zones, and respecting them helps avoid stress or fear-based reactions.
7. Set the Example
Children often mirror adult behavior. Be a role model — handle your dog calmly and respectfully, and your kids will follow suit.
Final Thoughts
When kids learn how to interact safely with dogs, it builds trust, confidence, and a friendship that can last a lifetime. Teach early, practice often, and always supervise — and you’ll have a happy home full of tail wags and giggles.
Building a Strong Bond with Your Dog
At K9 Bondz, we believe in fostering a strong bond between you and your dog. Building a positive relationship based on trust and communication will enhance your training experience and create a lifelong connection with your furry friend. Remember to have fun and enjoy the journey of training together!
Housebreaking a Puppy:
A Gentle Guide to Potty Training Success
Bringing a puppy home is exciting, chaotic, and absolutely heart-melting. But along with the cuddles and zoomies comes one of the less glamorous parts of puppy parenthood: housebreaking. It’s one of the first big milestones in your pup’s life—and a crucial one.
The good news? With patience, consistency, and a little bit of strategy, your puppy will learn where to go (and where not to).
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Routine Is Everything
Just like babies, puppies thrive on routine. Set up a consistent potty schedule to help them understand what’s expected. First thing in the morning, after every meal, after naps, and before bed—these are all key potty times. And when they're really young, they may need to go out as often as every 1–2 hours. Sticking to a schedule helps regulate their little systems and makes accidents less likely.
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Pick a Potty Spot
Take your puppy to the same outdoor spot every time. The familiar smell tells them, “Ah yes, this is the place.” Add a verbal cue like “go potty” so they can start associating the command with the action. Keep it calm and distraction-free—no playtime until the business is done.
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Reward Like a Rockstar
Timing is everything. As soon as your puppy finishes going potty outside, immediately offer praise, treats, or a favorite toy. Don’t wait until you’re back inside—by then, they won’t connect the reward with the action. Positive reinforcement is your best tool. It builds confidence and encourages the behavior you want to see again.
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Watch Like a Hawk Indoors
When your puppy is inside, supervision is key. If you can't watch them closely, or a puppy playpen. Crate training can also be incredibly helpful—dogs naturally avoid soiling where they sleep, so it encourages them to hold it until they’re let out. Keep an eye out for signs: sniffing, circling, whining, or heading toward the door. If you catch them in the act, gently interrupt and take them outside right away.
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Handle Accidents Calmly
Accidents are part of the process. Never punish your puppy—they don’t connect punishment with past actions, and it can lead to fear or confusion. Instead, clean up thoroughly using an enzymatic cleaner that removes lingering odors (so they don’t see that spot as a bathroom again).
Every puppy is different. Some catch on quickly, others take a little longer.
Stay calm, stay consistent, and celebrate every little win. Before you know it, you’ll be looking back at the potty training days and marveling at how far your pup has come.
Want a little extra help?
Ask us about our puppy classes—designed to support you through training, socialization, and all the tail-wagging adventures in between. We’re here to help you and your pup succeed!
